Are strokes preventable?

Are strokes preventable?

Up to 50% of all strokes are preventable. Many risk factors can be controlled before they cause problems.

Controllable risk factors Include:

• High blood pressure
• Atrial fibrillation
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Being overweight
• Existing carotid and/or coronary artery disease

Uncontrollable Risk Factors:

• Age (over 65)
• Race (Black people and people of South Asian origin are at increased risk)
• Family history of stroke

Your doctor can evaluate your risk of stroke and help you control your risk factors. Sometimes, people experience warning signs before a stroke occurs. These are called transient ischaemic attacks (also called TIA or "mini-stroke") and are short, brief episodes of the stroke symptoms listed above. Some people have no symptoms warning them prior to a stroke or symptoms are so mild they are not noticeable. Regular check-ups are important in identifying problems before they become serious. Report any symptoms or risk factors to your doctor.